Panasonic FH5, FH2: Two closely-related ultracompactsBy
Michael R. Tomkins, The Imaging Resource
(Wednesday, January 5, 2011 - 18:30 EST)Continuing its announcements for the day, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Co. has unveiled its new Lumix DMC-FH5 and DMC-FH2 digital cameras, two ultra-compact models that are nearly inseparable in terms of most specifications.

The differences between the Panasonic FH2 and FH5 all relate to their choice of image sensor. While the Lumix FH5 opts for a 1/2.33-inch type, primary color filtered CCD chip with 16.1 effective megapixel resolution, the Lumix FH2 opts for a 14.1 megapixel chip of similar size, type, and filtering. The Panasonic FH5's choice of a higher resolution image sensor actually causes it to lag behind the Lumix DMC-FH2 in a couple of other areas, though.

The higher-res chip used in the DMC-FH5 causes a reduction in its high definition movie frame rate, versus that of the Panasonic Lumix FH2. The frame rate when recording 720p movies on the Panasonic Lumix FH5 is fixed at 24 frames per second, while its standard--def movie modes all record at 30 frames per second. By contrast, the FH2 can capture 720p movies at 30 frames per second. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH5 also has slightly lower battery life, being rated at 260 shots per charge, versus 270 shots for the FH2 -- both to CIPA testing standards.

There are two other differences of particular note between the two cameras. The Panasonic DMC-FH5 will be available in silver, black, violet, and gold body colors, and is the heavier model by a slight three grams. The black color will also be available for the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH2, as well as blue, red, and pink versions.

In other respects, the Panasonic DMC-FH2 and FH5 are largely similar. Both cameras have the same body design, Lumix DC Vario-Elmar branded 4x optical zoom lens, optical image stabilization, and 2.7" LCD display. US-market pricing and availability for both cameras will be announced approximately 30 days before their respective availability, and hence aren't available at press time. For more details, read our Panasonic FH5 preview or Panasonic FH2 preview, depending on whether you favor the 7% increase in linear resolution, or the higher movie frame rate and 4% better battery life.

“The new additions to the popular LUMIX FH-Series provide the same advanced features that consumers have come to expect from the LUMIX brand, such as Intelligent Auto mode and Intelligent Zoom, but now offer even greater speed and accuracy,” said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “Panasonic continues to pack a variety of valuable features into slim camera bodies making shooting easier, convenient and fun.”

Panasonic’s popular iA (Intelligent Auto) mode, a suite of technologies that engage automatically, with no setting changes needed, makes it easy for anyone to take beautiful photos. The LUMIX FH5 and LUMIX FH2 feature two new iA functions – AF (Auto Focus) Tracking and Intelligent Exposure. AF Tracking locks onto any subject and keeps it in focus. Intelligent Exposure optimizes the exposure for each part of an image, preventing blocked shadows and blown highlights, while helping to ensure that gradation and details are reproduced flawlessly. Other features of Panasonic iA mode include:

Users can also enjoy instant photo and video sharing with LUMIX Image Uploader. Simply check the photos/videos you want to share and connect the camera to a PC. Uploading starts just by following the easy on-screen guide.

Other features include:

Intelligent LCD – The LCD detects the lighting conditions and controls the brightness level in 11 fine steps, to display the most appropriate setting

Scene Modes – A total of 28 modes, such as Baby, Pet and Sports, and users can also record the name/birthday of a child or pet and embed the information in the photo

Built-in memory – Has increased to 70MB

Pricing and availability for the Panasonic LUMIX FH5 and LUMIX FH2 will be announced 30 days prior to shipping date. Encased in a metallic, noble hairline finish, the LUMIX FH5 will be available in silver, black, violet and gold models and the LUMIX FH2 in black, pink, red and blue. For more on these Panasonic LUMIX models, please visit www.panasonic.com/CES.

* 35mm camera equivalent: 28-112mm

About Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company Based in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company (PCEC), is a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic's U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations. In its commitment to provide consumers with extensive imaging resources, Panasonic LUMIX established the Digital Photo Academy, a series of nationwide workshops designed to instruct consumers how to optimize the features on their digital cameras and produce high-quality photos. Panasonic is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the earth's natural resources and protect our environment through the company’s Eco Ideas programs. Company information for journalists is available at www.panasonic.com/pressroom.